Description

This Salmon Cakes recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy canned salmon transformed into crispy, flavorful patties. Perfect as a main course or appetizer, these salmon cakes combine flaked salmon with breadcrumbs, fresh vegetables, and seasonings, pan-fried to golden perfection and served with fresh lemon wedges for brightness. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or entertaining guests with a light seafood option.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Cake Mixture

2 (6 oz) cans salmon, drained and flaked
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Cooking

2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

To Serve

Lemon wedges

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, finely chopped red onion and celery, fresh parsley, eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create the salmon cake mixture.
Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 6 to 8 patties, each about 1/2 inch thick, ensuring they hold together well for cooking.
Heat Oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, preparing the pan for frying the salmon cakes.
Cook Salmon Cakes: Place the patties carefully into the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust and are heated through completely.
Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the cooked salmon cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil, ensuring they stay crisp and not greasy.
Serve: Serve the salmon cakes warm with fresh lemon wedges on the side to add a bright, zesty finish.

Notes

For a lighter alternative, bake the salmon cakes at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
Fresh cooked salmon can be used instead of canned for a different texture and flavor.
Adding a bit more parsley or other herbs can enhance the freshness of the patties.
These salmon cakes freeze well for meal prepping; freeze uncooked patties and fry directly from frozen, adding a couple more minutes to the cook time.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course, Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American